Project Architect Planner

About the role

SmithGroup is an integrated design firm blending research, data, and technology with creativity to deliver resilient, inclusive spaces that address clients' greatest challenges. The San Francisco office seeks a Project Architect Planner to lead urban design and mobility projects, manage workflows, and ensure successful project delivery.

Responsibilities

• Lead urban design and mobility projects by coordinating project teams and managing workflows.
• Maintain relationships with clients, consultants, public agencies, and stakeholders to support collaboration and project goals.
• Manage project communications, deliverables, and documentation to ensure quality, accuracy, and compliance with contractual requirements.
• Coordinate with internal staff, clients, owners, contractors, consultants, and regulatory agencies to facilitate project execution and decision-making.
• Provide project leadership by managing scope, budget, schedule, risk, and overall project performance.
• Review project schedules and milestones to monitor progress, identify issues, and support timely completion.
• Develop proposals and scopes of work to support business development and project growth initiatives.
• Review design drawings and technical documents for quality, completeness, compliance with project criteria, and applicable codes.
• Maintain and update project guidelines, design criteria, and technical standards in coordination with project teams and clients.
• Prepare and deliver presentations to clients, stakeholders, and public agencies to communicate project goals, recommendations, and outcomes.
• Provide direction and oversight to project team members by assigning work, reviewing deliverables, and offering guidance and mentorship.
• Support staffing, performance management, and employee development activities in accordance with organizational policies.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in architecture or equivalent; additional professional degree, certification, or experience as an Urban Planner/Designer preferred.
• Architectural license in California or ability to obtain one.
• 8 years of professional experience, including managing large projects with multiple stakeholders.
• Experience in transit/rail/mobility projects and/or large urban design and infrastructure projects.
• Collaborative approach with strong ability to engage in a multidisciplinary environment.
• Strong mentoring, written and verbal communication, and organizational skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Revit, AutoCAD, Adobe/Affinity Creative Suite, GIS, Rhino, and SketchUp Pro preferred.
• Experience leading architects, urban designers, and project teams.
• Demonstrated understanding of code implementation, jurisdiction review, construction practices, and methodologies.

Benefits

• Flexible scheduling and hybrid work environment.
• 3 weeks of PTO within the first year, with the option to purchase additional time off.
• 8 paid federal holidays plus 15 extra Fridays off.
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage, along with wellbeing resources.
• Paid parental leave.
• Flex spending account and voluntary insurance options.
• 401(k) program with employer matching.
• Tuition reimbursement program.
• One-on-one career coaching and professional development opportunities.

Pay

Anticipated salary range for this position is $108,000 to $128,000 annually, with eligibility for a performance-based bonus each year.